Today marks the 62nd anniversary of one of the most painful and defining moments in Birmingham’s history the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church. On that tragic day, an act of racial hatred stole the lives of four innocent girls: Addie Mae Collins, Denise McNair, Cynthia Wesley, and Carole Robertson.

We pause to remember them not as symbols, but as children daughters, sisters, students whose lives were cut short by violence aimed at terrorizing a community seeking justice. Their deaths remind us that the freedoms and civil rights we benefit from today came at an unimaginable cost. Yet even in devastation, our story did not end.

A Church Rebuilt With Purpose and Excellence

The 16th Street Baptist Church, once reduced to rubble, rose again not only as a place of worship, but as a living testament to Black resilience, craftsmanship, and dignity. The restoration of this sacred landmark was led by Gillard Construction, a Black-owned general contractor, with Mr. James Poindexter serving as superintendent of the project.

Mr. Poindexter’s leadership, attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to excellence ensured the church was restored with the reverence it deserved. Those who walk through its doors today see a building that stands whole, strong, beautiful, and intentional because of the care taken to rebuild it as if nothing had ever been broken.

This was more than construction. It was a restoration of spirit, history, and community.

Honoring a Legacy of Excellence

On Saturday, September 20, 2025, during the Black Contractors Association Alabama Chapter’s annual fundraiser, this year celebrating the legacy of the legendary Frankie Beverly we will proudly present the first ever James Poindexter Spirit of Excellence Award.

This honor recognizes Mr. Poindexter’s contributions not only to the restoration of a historic site, but to the mentorship, development, and advancement of countless individuals within our industry and our community. His work embodies what it means to lead with integrity, skill, and purpose.

Because We Built – And We Continue to Build

The story of Black contractors in Birmingham is inseparable from the story of this city itself. Even in the face of tragedy, hatred, and exclusion, our people built. We restored. We elevated. And we continue to do so today. As we remember the lives lost 62 years ago, we also recommit ourselves to honoring their memory through excellence, service, and unity. We will never forget what was taken, but we will also never forget what was built in response.

We remember. We honor. We build.

Jarrod Sims, President, The Black Contractors’ Association Alabama Chapter Inc